Surviving Daylight Savings Time with Kids
Ah, Daylight Savings Time – the biannual event that turns our kids’ routines (and our sanity) upside down! As ABA therapists who love routines and know how important they are for children, we’re here to share some tips and laughs as we navigate this “extra hour” together.
So, whether you’re bracing yourself for early morning wake-ups, unexpected meltdowns, or snack requests at 5 a.m., here’s our survival guide to Daylight Savings with kids!
Kid Friendly Tips & Tricks
1. Ease into Change (One 10-Minute Increment at a Time)
Rather than jumping head-first into the new time, try shifting your child’s bedtime by just 10-15 minutes over a few days leading up to the change. This gentle shift helps their internal clocks gradually adjust, making the change feel a little less like a rude awakening.
Why We Love This Tip: It’s like a mini “behavior shaping” plan for bedtime! Small adjustments help ease anxiety, build consistency, and avoid shock for everyone (including you).
2. Extra “Play Hour” = Extra Bonding Time?
If you’re up at an unholy hour with a kid who’s ready to party, lean into it! Use this “extra” time to do something low-key yet engaging. A dance party, puzzle, or even a simple snack time can be a lifesaver until you’re back to a reasonable routine.
Pro-Tip: Set out some calming, independent activities they can jump into on their own if they wake up too early. Bonus points if you get to sneak in an extra cup of coffee!
3. The Early Morning Snack Dilemma 🍌
Is it breakfast time? Snack time? Or some mysterious blend of both? When routines change, our kids’ tummies sometimes seem a little confused too. Try having small, consistent snacks ready that help keep things predictable. A piece of fruit, a handful of crackers – anything that says, “Yes, it’s not quite breakfast, but hang tight!”
4. Make it Fun and Lighthearted – Kids Love Silly “Games”!
If your kids are struggling with the new schedule, try creating a fun chart to help them adjust. Maybe they can “earn” extra bedtime stories by adjusting to the time change like a pro, or collect stickers for following the new bedtime routine.
Why It Works: Reinforcing positive behavior is our bread and butter in ABA. Small, encouraging rewards can help kids adapt to change with a sense of accomplishment (and maybe even some excitement).
For Parents – The Real MVPs of Daylight Savings
This one’s for you. Whether you’re adjusting routines, reassuring your child at 5 a.m., or just trying to get back to a schedule that works, we see you! Every little win counts, and we’re cheering you on every (earlier-than-normal) step of the way.
And remember, this is all temporary. Just as your child gets used to the new routine, you’ll probably be adjusting for the next season – but until then, cheers to every small victory!
Hang in there! With a little flexibility, humor, and plenty of patience, you’ve got this.
If you have concerns that your child has autism, contact your primary care physician. If you are looking for Applied Behavior Therapy, complete the Epicenter ABA Therapy intake form.
